By Funmi Ojo
The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, is committed to ensuring that the upcoming Local Government elections scheduled for February 22 are conducted in a credible, free, and fair manner.
The Chairman of OSSIEC, Mr Hashim Abioye stated this at an interaction session with the Osun Chapter, League of Veteran Journalists at the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Secretariat in Osogbo.
Mr Abioye addressed concerns about ongoing litigations related to the electoral process, stating that while there are pending court cases, they do not hinder the commission’s preparations for the elections.
He emphasized the importance of starting from a solid foundation with the proper issuance of the notice of election, cautioning that any errors at the preliminary stage could undermine the entire process.
Despite the existence of legal challenges, the OSSIEC Chairman clarified that no political candidates have been disqualified, as rumoured since all participating parties have successfully conducted their primaries.
He also mentioned that the post-election tribunal is being established by the state’s Chief Judge and reassured that the development would not interfere with the electoral timeline.
Highlighting the importance of collective responsibility, Mr Abioye stressed that every stakeholder involved must work together to ensure the elections’ success.
To this end, he said guidelines and manuals have been provided to political parties, and consultations with legal professionals have been conducted to maintain adherence to legal and constitutional standards.
He called on political parties and stakeholders to collaborate with the commission in fulfilling its mandate to facilitate a credible election.
In a remark, the acting Chairman of the League of Veteran Journalists in Osun, Mr Adeyeye Oyedokun, praised OSSIEC for its transparency and commitment to conducting a successful election.
He also assured that the media would continue to support democratic processes by fulfilling its crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability.
Also Speaking, a retired Director of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Mr Emmanuel Agboola, emphasized the critical nature of election matters, which require comprehensive legal frameworks and open-door policies to ensure credibility and prevent violence.
Mr Agboola expressed hope that the success of the February 22 Local Government elections would serve as a model for other states
He urged OSSIEC to ensure an equitable electoral process by providing all political parties with a level playing field.
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